Replacement Joint Implants

Aim Of This Article

To provide you with information, to assist you in making an informed choice, whether or not to undergo foot surgery. The condition may be called Hallux Limitus / Rigidus, if of the great toe joint. It can relate to lesser toe joints as well.

Aims Of This Procedure

Relief of pain in the toe joint caused by and arthritic damaged joint.

To allow more normal walking to occur again in the joint.

There are alternative procedures. Please ask.

The Procedure

Arthritic and damaged cartilage and bone is removed from the joint and joint replacement is put into the space. Implants are made of numerous different surgical materials, the best one for your particular joint is chosen.

Approximate procedure time 30-60 minutes.

Approximate Recovery Times

Week 0-1

Heel or flat foot walking. Rest with your foot elevated.

Week 1-2

reduced walking. Elevate your foot when possible. Sutures are removed around this time.

Week 3-4

Swelling should start to subside. Gradual return to non-sporting activities (work) as felt comfortable. Return to driving in normal shoes when you feel safe.

Week 6-8

Continued improvement. Swelling and stiffness should be subsiding.

Month 6-12

For most people the full benefit of surgery is by now.

Specific Risks Of This Operation

Possibility of slightly shorter big toe.

Reduced range of toe movement, usually without pain.

Implant complications such as, rejection, wear, breakage.

Transfer of pressures and pains to other areas.

The implant may need removing.

Loss of toe

General Risks Of Surgery

Infection minor or major

Delayed healing of soft tissues or bone.

Swelling, short or long term.

Numbness, short or long term.

Scar problems, Pain Thickening Discolouration.

Chronic (long term) Pain Syndromes.

Anaesthetic and medication complications.

Damage to Circulation. Haematoma (Bleeding into the skin)

Blood clots, DVT and Thrombosis, Heart attack.

Failed procedure, Deterioration. Fatality from complications.

Anaesthetics

We specialise in providing Regional Local Anaesthesia. We use injections to numb your foot, so you do not have to be put to sleep.

Going Home

You are able to go home the same day, but you must be driven home and have a responsible adult to stay with you.

Further Information

If you have any questions please ask the team Consultant or a member of the Podiatric Surgical Team during your consultation.

This leaflet should be read in conjunction with Patients Pre-Op Information Booklet available at the practice